CompletedNot Applicable

Examining the Link Between Depression and Seasonal Allergies

United States100 participantsStarted 2006-07-15

Plain-language summary

This study will examine whether spring and fall seasonal depression in individuals with high sensitivity to pollen is linked to seasonal increases in tree and ragweed pollen.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 64 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy or intention to become pregnant within the duration of the study * Dependence on alcohol, cocaine, stimulants, benzodiazepines, marijuana, or opiates * Major medical illness, including cancer, hepatitis, and autoimmune disease * A winter subtype of seasonal affective disorder * Diagnosis of psychotic disorder * Positive result in Phadiatop allergy test, but negative result in tree or ragweed pollen IgE test

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression-Seasonal Affective Disorder Version (SIGH-SAD)

Timeframe: Measured before and then during the peak fall or spring pollen period

Trial details

NCT IDNCT00770068

SponsorUniversity of Maryland, Baltimore

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeOBSERVATIONAL

Primary completion2017-04-11

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Depression trials

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 64 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.